Uncertain times for VET numbers

The estimable National Centre for Vocational Education Research reports apprentice and trainee starts in the 12 months to June 30 last

Commencements were up by 59 per cent, completions increased 8 per cent, although and cancellations/withdrawals grew  by nearly 9 per cent.

All up it struck  Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business Stuart Robert as good news indeed. “It once again confirmed the Australian skills sector and TAFEs were thriving under the Morrison Government.”

Good-o, although the NCVER does mention “the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia has created uncertain times for individuals, business and governments, which have affected apprentice and trainee numbers.  Care should be taken when comparing 2020 and 2021 data with data from previous years.”